Florence Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Florence Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established in 1939 as a Refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife. Florence Lake NWR is administered by Long Lake NWR as an un-staffed satellite Refuge. The 1,888-acre Refuge holds almost 1,000 acres of virgin native mixed-grass prairie and a 132-acre lake. This high quality prairie habitat attracts grassland birds including prairie sparrows, which nest in the uplands and are sought by many birders visiting the region. The grasslands provide a diverse mix of showy wildflowers and prairie grasses. The Refuge is relatively isolated from human activity, and the habitat provides a true representation of the northern mixed grass prairie. Occasionally, bald eagles and peregrine falcons are observed on Florence Lake NWR. More commonly spotted species include ferruginous hawks, American bittern, great-blue heron, black-crowned night heron, American white pelican, giant Canada geese, mallards, pintail, and blue-winged teal. Mammals who reside on the Refuge year-round include white-tailed deer, coyote, mink, muskrat, raccoon, and skunk.

Florence Lake NWR is located about 11 miles northeast of Wing, North Dakota. From Wing, travel north on Highway 14 for 9 miles, then turn west on the gravel road for 3 miles, turn north 1 mile, and then go east 1 mile. Access roads are gravel and the last mile is unimproved prairie trail which is impassible when wet.